Just how Toby would have sung it.
There is something so wholesome and powerful about young country music fans connecting with songs that were released before their time. It not only preserves the gems of country music but also instills its spirit. And no artist can do that better than the feeling Toby Keith’s music gives you.
Recently, a young aspiring singer from Pennsylvania named Blake has gone viral for belting the lyrics to Toby Keith’s famed tune “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American).”
The patriotic song, which ended up being one of the Big Dog Daddy’s many iconic hits, was written in late 2001, shortly after the United States was attacked on September 11th. The unfathomable terrorist attacks, as well as the death of Keith’s father in March of 2001, contributed to Toby penning the song in the later months of 2001 and releasing it in May of 2002.
For a while, Toby refused to officially record the song. He felt as though it was only right to perform live, and specifically during performances for the military. In case you didn’t know, Keith was very passionate about giving back to the United States military. He went on 18 USO tours, and it’s estimated that he performed for 250,000 active-duty service members during his lifetime.
However, as Toby Keith played “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” more and more, he became aware of how powerful the track was and knew he’d need to record it. Once, a Commandant of the Marine Corps told him that it was his duty as an American citizen to record and release the song, he obliged. Shortly after receiving this order, Keith released it as the lead single from his 2002 album Unleashed.
The track ended up being Keith’s biggest solo hit and quickly became ingrained in patriotic American culture, with songs like Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless The U.S.A.”
Because this song is such a staple, it’s not surprising that this young country singer was familiar with the lyrics. Blake was invited on stage at the Field House Restaurant in Cabot, PA, and was backed by country musician Isaac Cole for his electric performance.
The little boy instantly captivated the audience, confidently belting out the words honoring his nation by taking his hat off. But before Keith’s famed “boot in your a**” line, Blake strapped in, putting his ball cap back on, which indicated to the crowd he meant business.
After a dramatic pause, he looked back at Isaac Cole, and the two jumped back into the lyrics, riling up the crowd. Blake got so into the performance that he even pulled his boot off and shot it around, really making the lyrics pop.
Talk about a natural-born performer.
After the video took off, it gained attention from Toby Keith’s team, with his official TikTok leaving a comment:
“Well done. -Team Toby.”
Toby would be so proud of this young fan. Keep on singing, Blake.
@blake_wd Hit that follow button, please 🤠 @Isaac Cole #fyp #country #countrymusic #tobykeith
The internet was in love with this rising star and quickly filled up the comments section:
“I love knowing that the youth love Toby Keith and are keeping his name alive and well.”
“Only time I was allowed to swear as a kid was to this song.”
“Of MY red white and blue.”
“America is healing.”
“Toby would be so proud.”
“He’s gonna love this video when he’s older.”
“Can you do my wedding? This song please.”
“I know he’s the coolest kid in his class.”
“Toby is smiling down.”
“Me at karaoke every time.”
“I know Toby Keith is smiling huge up there.”
And before you go, fire up the Big Dog Daddy’s version.